Sex, love and intimacy play an important part in what it means to be human. Whether for pleasure and/or procreation; whether straight, gay or bisexual; and irrespective of gender or HIV status making informed choices about our sexual and reproductive lives helps shape our dreams and desires. Linking sexual and reproductive health and HIV recognizes the vital role that sexuality plays in people's lives. The following real-life stories reflect IPPF's core values in linking sexual and reproductive health and HIV: evidence-informed programming, a recognition of vulnerability and the full protection of rights. In a Life highlights how our work - shaped and pioneered by the efforts of thousands of commit ted staff, volunteers and partners - is having a real impact in the lives of people the world over.